10 Family Friendly Things To Do In San Clemente
Wherever you may be traveling from, make your next destination the charming and quaint surf town of San Clemente. Located at the very south end of Orange County, this city is known as the “Spanish village-by-the-sea” for its Spanish-inspired architecture and beautiful climate. Below is a list of family-friendly activities to do in San Clemente and the surrounding neighboring towns of San Juan Capistrano and Dana Point. Feel free to share with family and friends!
About Mallory Green
Mallory is a content writer and mommy blogger based in sunny San Diego, California, and is expecting a baby girl due January 2021. She enjoys spending time at the beach with her one-year-old son, Holden, and husband, and (when not pregnant) enjoys happy hours with friends, drinking wine from Napa Valley, and exploring the many restaurants and cafes throughout San Diego’s neighborhoods.
Locomotion: Take the Train
Make traveling even more family-friendly, adventurous, and fun by taking the train! The Amtrak Pacific Coastliner stops right in front of the San Clemente Pier, so you can jump off and explore the Pier, downtown San Clemente, Old Town, and Avenida Del Mar. Grab your tickets, pack some snacks, and get ready for a smooth ride, all without having to sit in traffic and spend money on gas.
Walk on the San Clemente Pier
San Clemente is known for its beaches, its moderate and temperate weather year round, and of course, the San Clemente Pier. This 1,296-foot-long structure was first built in 1928, but it did not outlast the hurricane of 1939 and was ultimately destroyed. It was rebuilt in 1983, and was further enhanced in 2009, where it now stands today as the city’s most well-known landmark and a popular sightseeing spot for Orange County residents and visitors from afar. Visit the Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar on the pier for an amazing happy hour featuring delicious drink concoctions and $1 oysters!
Shop on Avenida Del Mar
With a plethora of cute boutiques ranging from surf shops, chocolatiers, clothing stores, and speciality shops, Avenida Del Mar is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Stop in for a classic American comfort dish at Nick’s, or spice things up with a Spanish-inspired meal at their sister restaurant, South of Nick’s. If you’re looking for great discounts and more name brands to shop for, the Outlets at San Clemente is an outdoor shopping mall that offers over 65 stores, 12 dining outlets, and is a pet-friendly mall.
Explore the Museum of Casa Romantica
The Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens was once the home of the founder of San Clemente, Ole Hanson. This historical landmark offers daily tours of the home, multiple exhibits, and over two acres of beautiful coastal gardens. Casa Romantica has programs for all ages in history, literature, music, and the arts. General admission is just $5 and all kids ages 12 and under can tour Casa Romantica for free.
Ride Along Highway 101
The U.S. Highway 101 is a road that spans over 1,500 miles from Southern California all the way up to Washington state. The 101 is also known as the 1, and Pacific Coast Highway, as it runs along the Pacific coast and boasts amazing views from your car window. Take Highway 101 from San Clemente, to Dana Point, and beyond!
Whale Watch in Dana Point
Known for having some of the best beaches in all of Southern California, Dana Point is home to some of the most incredible marine life, including whales, dolphins, and hundreds of species of fish. You won’t want to miss out on whale watching while visiting this beautiful destination! No matter what season you’re visiting, whale watching is open year round. With three whale watching and marine life tour operators available, you and your family can see the world’s largest and smallest marine creatures on a 2.5 hour boat tour. Get ready to experience an incredible whale watching expedition!
Wine and Dine at Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern
Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern is also located in San Diego and Brea, and is a family-owned group that is passionate about offering customers an authentic experience with superb (and amazing) bar food. Enjoy local craft brews and high-quality, delicious American fare, all while taking in the gorgeous views of Dana Point Harbor. Watch a sports game, take a load off, and sip on a glass of wine or a refreshing cocktail. They also offer a great happy hour and kid’s menu!
Visit Charming Downtown and Historic San Juan Capistrano
The historic downtown San Juan Capistrano offers the Mission San Juan Capistrano, a famed chapel, gardens and a museum. Explore the Mission’s rich and momentous history by taking a guided tour, or explore on your own, then take the family to Zoomars Petting Zoo or the Old Barn Antique Mall. Stop by the 3:16 Bakery Shop for a delicious pastry and an iced coffee to go, then head over to Trevor’s at the Tracks to sit at their picturesque patio bar overlooking the train tracks. For lunch or dinner, visit the rustic and romantic French restaurant, L’Hirondelle, or the Taqueria El Campeon, for large and small Mexican plates to share with the entire family!
Cruise Around Brewery Hopping
If you’re looking to hang out and relax with some friends, a few brews, and an Uber ride (or two) that won’t cost a fortune, then brewery hopping in San Clemente is just for you. With four local breweries within four miles, you won’t have to go far to try out some of the best craft beers in all of Southern California. From amazing IPAs at Artifex to a large selection of stouts and IPAs at Left Coast, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, unwind, and imbibe.
Spend a Day at the Beach
Nothing beats spending a day at the beach, with your toes in the sand, the sun shining down, and the refreshing, cool ocean breeze bringing a sense of serenity to your surroundings. T-Street Beach is just a short walk from the San Clemente Pier and is a favorite surf and bodyboarding spot amongst the locals. Walk along the San Clemente Beach Trail that spans from the pier all the way down to San Clemente State Beach, perfect for going on a morning run or an afternoon walk. Pack a cooler with the kids’ favorite snacks, bring a few extra towels, an umbrella, and don’t forget the sunscreen!
